Micromineral Content of Swiss Chard (Beta vulgaris L. var. cicla) Leaves Grown on Zeolite-Amended Sandy Soil

Swiss chard (Beta vulgaris L. var. cicla), a popular leafy vegetable grown mainly for its ease of production and nutritional content, is normally used as good source microminerals iron (Fe) zinc (Zn). Improving plant uptake Fe Zn could assist in reducing micromineral deficiencies humans, which are global problem. A greenhouse pot experiment was conducted at the Agricultural Research Council, Stellenbosch to assess response soil trace elements under zeolite sandy soil. The consisted four treatments, with six replicates arranged randomized complete block design. Zeolite applied 0%; 10%; 20% 30% combination harvested analysis 143 days after transplanting. Soil samples were also collected end each growing season. leaves analysed Fe, Zn, Mn, Cu content same elements. study found that did not improve Mn. had an inverse relationship application while residual effect showed trend, but only second This indicated cannot be by can rectify heavy metal-infested soils.